“Dear Friend” Campaign

“Dear Friend” Campaign • We live in a digitally connected world BUT are we truly connected? • The average Facebook user has more than 300 friends BUT are they really our “friends”? Would you say hello to a facebook friend In real life?

“Dear Friend” Campaign Aims To: • Break down social barriers online • Raise awareness about mental health on campus • Create a supportive network of facebook friends So that people are open to talk So that people feel comfortable reaching out So that people feel appreciated

“Dear Friend” Campaign Concept • Each campus has their own “Dear Friend” page Ex. Dear Friend UToronto • This page will serve as • a community forum where people can share experiences and start a dialogue • an info resource about mental health and services specific to each campus

“Dear Friend” Campaign Concept • Students will be able to send private messages to the “Dear Friend” page about their experiences with mental health This will then be posted anonymously on the page • Students will be encouraged to post their own “Dear Friend,” status updates to show support and willingness to talk

Dear Friend, I may not know you that well or we may not have talked since high school but I want you to know that if you need someone to talk to I’m always here. #notalone #mentalhealth Can be posted on Official page or shared by other students on their own wall

Dear Friend, I am an athlete I am an A student I am outgoing and I have depression #ok2say

Dear Friend, I lost a friend to suicide last year. It was an incredibly painful experience and I still miss him so much. I have a hard time understanding why...or if I could’ve done something differently. I want you all to know that if you ever need to talk, I’ll listen. If you feel depressed, please please get help. Life is too precious. An example of what individual students may post on their own wall.

Dear Friend, I know it’s exams. So take some time to destress tomorrow with FREE yoga given by @CarletonYogaClub Exercise gives your brain a boost and lifts your mood! The page can be used to promote events on campus that promote good health and community well being

Dear Friend, First year is a time of freedom, new opportunities, new friends, parties and excitement. But first year can also feel overwhelming and lonely. If you’re feeling down, homesick or stressed, come knock on my door. We’ll chill over some tea and cookies. Example of what a floor fellow may post on their wall. Residences could also create their own “Dear Friend” page.

Dear Friend, Let’s #challengeassumptions I am your Professor and I have Bipolar Disorder

Dear Friend, I was bullied in high school because everyone thought I was gay. I was. And when I finally came out in university, I was terrified. Some of my friends were a bit awkward about it, but the ones that matter were really supportive and treated me no differently. #ItGetsBetter

Dear Friend, Today I was walking by the UCU, and I heard a bunch of guys badly imitating an Indian accent and laughing. As an immigrant, I find that incredibly offensive. Seriously that’s not cool. Show some #respect #NotFunny. Let’s work for an inclusive campus community Example of what students may send for anonymous posting

Dear Friend, I want to give a huge shout out to Jane Doe. I was going through a really tough time last year and this girl was so incredibly supportive. She was always willing to listen and gave very sound advice. Having her as a friend has been a true gift. Example of anonymous posting. Recognizing good work is important for continual interest in the page / campaign

Dear Friend, 1 in 5 Canadians will have a mental illness at some point in their lives. Mental illness is not a sign of weakness, it is a disease. Let’s talk about it. I was lonely...

“Dear Friend” Campaign • Depends on active participation of students in each campus. They will need to “like” page and engage in conversation. • Facebook page needs to have moderators that will post anonymous messages. • Relying on snowball effect for students to start posting “Dear Friend” messages on their own walls. - Will need initial encouragement through official “Dear Friend” pages.

“Dear Friend” Campaign